Your adventure begins as you arrive in Chile, where transport will be arranged to collect you from Puerto Montt Airport. It’s well connected to the rest of Chile, making your journey smooth and hassle-free. We will start our journey to the accommodation in the late afternoon. If you arrive earlier you can store your luggage in the city centre and use the time to explore Puerto Montt.
To make the most of your trip, we recommend arriving in the morning or afternoon, giving you time to settle in and it’s a great opportunity to meet your fellow adventurers. If you’re arriving a day early, we can suggest excellent accommodation options to ensure a relaxed start to your journey.
For the duration of the trip, you’ll be based in Puerto Varas, right in the heart of lakes and mountains. This means you won’t have to carry all your belongings from place to place, and after each day of hiking, you’ll return to the comfort of a warm shower and a cosy bed. Get ready for an unforgettable week exploring one of the most spectacular mountain landscapes.
Distance – 12km, Elevation – 600m, Time – 6 Hours
The Desolación Trail, starting near Petrohué on the shores of Lago Todos los Santos, is one of the most dramatic hikes in Chile’s Lake District. The path takes its name from the exposed, windswept slopes that hikers traverse as they climb toward sweeping viewpoints, with little shelter from the elements and the imposing form of Volcán Osorno dominating the skyline. The trail begins gently through patches of forest before opening out into volcanic terrain, where loose black lava fields and sparse vegetation give the landscape a stark, almost lunar quality. As you ascend, Lago Todos los Santos shimmers far below, its deep turquoise waters framed by steep ridges and snow-capped volcanoes on the horizon. On clear days the views stretch across to the distant peaks of Cerro Tronador and the surrounding Andean range, making every step a reward in itself. The trail is moderately challenging, with steady climbs and sections exposed to strong winds, but it is never overly technical. It offers a raw and unforgettable sense of scale, perfectly capturing the meeting of fire, water, and ice that defines this part of Chile. For those visiting Puerto Varas or the Lake District, the Desolación Trail is a must-do hike that blends volcanic landscapes with some of the region’s most iconic vistas.
Distance – 11km, Elevation – 500m, Time – 5 Hours
The trails of Alerce Andino National Park, just outside Puerto Montt, lead into one of Chile’s most magical temperate rainforests, home to ancient trees and a rich variety of wildlife. The park is named after the alerce, a towering conifer that can live for more than 3,000 years, and walking among these giants feels like stepping back into a prehistoric world. The hike typically begins on gentle forest paths, where moss-draped branches, dense ferns, and trickling streams surround you in deep green. As the trail climbs gradually, you pass crystal-clear lagoons and hidden waterfalls, with opportunities to spot woodpeckers, hummingbirds, and even the shy pudú, the world’s smallest deer. The highlight is reaching groves of colossal alerce trees, their reddish bark and immense trunks a humbling reminder of time and resilience. Though the elevation gain is modest, the rich atmosphere and constant discovery make it a deeply rewarding walk. Unlike the open volcanic landscapes of nearby trails, Alerce Andino offers a more intimate and serene encounter with nature, where the silence of the forest and the weight of centuries-old trees leave a lasting impression. For hikers seeking something less about sweeping views and more about immersion in Chile’s wild heart, this park is unforgettable.
Distance – 12km, Elevation – 400m, Time – 5 Hours
The Cayutúe hike, starting near Lake Llanquihue not far from Puerto Varas, is a beautiful walk that blends volcanic landscapes with the serenity of the Chilean Lake District. The trail begins in open pastures framed by the perfect cone of Volcán Osorno, offering postcard views before you even set foot in the forest. From there, the path enters dense temperate rainforest, where ferns, mosses, and towering trees create a cool green canopy and streams weave across the trail. The steady climb is never too steep, making it accessible for most hikers, and the gradual transitions from farmland to forest to alpine lake give the route a satisfying variety. The highlight comes when the forest clears and you arrive at Lago Cayutúe, a pristine mountain lake cradled by steep ridges and surrounded by wild vegetation. On calm days, the waters mirror the surrounding slopes, creating a perfect spot to rest and take in the silence. Though less famous than the region’s volcano hikes, Cayutúe offers a gentler, more intimate experience, with the reward of a hidden lake that feels worlds away from the bustle of the nearby towns. For those based in Puerto Varas, it’s an ideal half-day adventure into Chile’s lush and volcanic heart.
A chance to slow down, explore the town, or enjoy another adventure. Puerto Varas, set on the shores of Lake Llanquihue with the perfect cone of Osorno Volcano rising behind it, is one of the most charming towns in Chile’s Lake District. Its streets are lined with wooden houses, cafés, and German-influenced bakeries where you can linger over kuchen or strong coffee. Strolling along the lakefront promenade offers sweeping views of the surrounding volcanoes, especially at sunset when the peaks glow pink and gold. On a free day you might wander through local markets, explore nearby waterfalls and forests, or take a boat trip out onto the lake. For something more adventurous, day excursions lead to Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, the turquoise waters of Petrohué Falls, or the peaceful trails of Alerce Andino National Park with its ancient trees. Whether you spend the day relaxing in town or exploring further afield, Puerto Varas combines small-town warmth with easy access to some of Chile’s most stunning scenery. You could also hop into Argentina for the day to experience a whole new culture around beautiful Bariloche.
Distance – 12,5km, Elevation – 675m, Time – 5 Hours
The Lagoa do Fogo hike is one of the most memorable experiences on São Miguel, leading to a volcanic crater lake that feels untouched and wild. The trail begins with a steady climb through green slopes and quiet forests, gradually opening up to sweeping views of the island’s rugged interior. As you ascend, the air grows cooler and the scenery more dramatic, until suddenly the vast bowl of the crater comes into view, with the deep-blue waters of Lagoa do Fogo shimmering below. The descent to the shoreline reveals a tranquil world of black sand beaches and quiet coves, where the only sounds are wind and water. This is a moderately challenging hike that rewards the effort with a sense of remoteness rarely found on such a small island. On clear days, you can see across to the ocean, while misty weather adds an otherworldly atmosphere. Lagoa do Fogo perfectly captures the wild and elemental beauty that makes the Azores such a unique hiking destination.
Distance – 9km, Elevation – 300m, Time – 4.5 Hours
The Faial da Terra hike is a journey into one of São Miguel’s most enchanting valleys, where dense forest, waterfalls, and a sense of timelessness make every step feel special. The trail begins in the small fishing village of Faial da Terra and winds gently upward through lush greenery, with ferns and moss-covered stone walls lining the path. Before long you arrive at Salto do Prego, a beautiful waterfall cascading into a cool pool that invites you to pause and take in the sound of rushing water. Continuing on, the route passes through Sanguinho, an abandoned village slowly being reclaimed by nature, its stone houses adding a touch of mystery to the walk. The circular path eventually loops back to the village, giving the hike a satisfying sense of discovery and return. It is a moderate walk in length and difficulty, making it accessible but still full of variety. More than just a hike, Faial da Terra feels like a step back in time into the heart of the Azores.
It’s time to pack your bags and move onwards. We arrange transport back to the airport so you can catch your flight home or continue to explore this majestical island. We have lots of recommendations if you’re going to spend more time in Portugal.
Please note: The itinerary may be change due to weather or closures. Your safety is always are upmost priority. Yur local guide will always keep you updated on what’s coming the next day and if there are any changes.
Please note: Airfares and meals are not included in the trip price unless mentioned above. This gives you the flexibility to choose your preferred flights and enjoy local dining experiences at your own pace.
You’ll be staying at Hotel Ponta Delgada in the centre of Ponta Delgada and 2 minutes walk to the sea. You will be staying in a twin room with private bathroom. Private rooms are available on request for a supplemetal cost. There is a hearty breakfast included in the price. There is also Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, garden, restuarant, hair dryers and laundry (paid).
Join fellow adventurers on an unforgettable trek through Chile’s stunning trails. Spaces are limited, so don’t wait – lock in your dates now.
Secure your place with a deposit of 30%. Final payment is due 30 days before departure. When booking a trip starting within 30 days, deposit payments are not accepted.
If your circumstances change and you can no longer make it, you can transfer your deposit to another trip up until 30 days before departure.
Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Please inquire about supplemental costs for a private room for each individual trip.
Secure your place with a deposit of 30%. Final payment is due 30 days before departure. You can also pay in full immediately if you wish.
If your circumstances change and you can no longer make it, you can transfer your deposit to another trip up until 10 days before departure.
Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a room. Any supplemental costs will be shown on the next screen.
